BCBG Max Azria

SHEER SITUATIONNew York: BCBG’s Pre-Fall presentation appeared demure at first glance, a sweet collection of long and mid-length dresses constructed from floaty chiffon in a variety of striped and folk-inspired prints. But with closer inspection the dresses possessed a revealing use of sheer textures, from jagged slashes of black lace inserts to barely opaque layers of silk. Halter necks dangled from thin drawstring cords only loosely anchoring them to the body, while exposed shoulders and clavicles added to the collection’s delicate message. Thanks to sturdy black leather accessories, including both fringed belts and wide harnesses, BCBG’s frocks didn’t completely float away, while a cool palette rooted in sapphire, navy, black and white kept Pre-Fall modern. —Nina Stotler